Singapore Discusses Terrorism with France, Malaysia and Indonesia

French Minister for the Armed Forces Sylvie Goulard had a bilateral meeting with Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen on the sidelines of the 16th Shangri-La Dialogue (SLD) earlier today. During the meeting, Dr Ng and Ms Goulard reaffirmed both countries' commitment to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation and discussed a wide range of geopolitical developments, including terrorism. Ms Goulard affirmed France's commitment to playing a role in maintaining peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific, citing its many interests in the region. She also noted that 2018 would mark the 20th anniversary of the Republic of Singapore Air Force's training in Cazaux, France.

Dr Ng also held separate bilateral meetings with Malaysian Minister of Defence Dato' Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein and Indonesian Minister of Defence General (Rtd) Ryamizard Ryacudu earlier today on the sidelines of the SLD. During Dr Ng's meetings with both Dato' Seri Hishammuddin and General (Rtd) Ryamizard, they discussed regional security issues, and agreed on the importance of stronger regional cooperation against the threat of terrorism, especially in the Sulu Sea and the Southern Philippines.

Dr Ng and Dato' Seri Hishammuddin reaffirmed the warm and long-standing ties between Singapore and Malaysia. During the meeting, both sides reiterated the importance of strong bilateral defence cooperation, as well as their commitment to multilateral frameworks, such as the Five Power Defence Arrangements, the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and the ADMM-Plus, which are integral to the region's security architecture.

Dr Ng and General (Rtd) Ryamizard reaffirmed the close and long-standing defence relations between Singapore and Indonesia, and noted that 2017 marked the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations between Singapore and Indonesia. 

Dr Ng also held meetings with Japanese Minister of Defense Tomomi Inada and New Zealand Minister of Defence Mark Mitchell on the sidelines of the 16th SLD today. Both Ministers are attending SLD for the first time in their current capacities and expressed their appreciation for the opportunities to hear the views of their colleagues from many countries in the region.